Q&A: A Scientific Point of View — Is There Such a Thing?
A Scientific Point of View — Is There Such a Thing?
Question
Does the study of philosophy need to be grounded in scientific knowledge? How much are our conclusions about the world connected to the dry facts? A fairly concrete and relevant question: are these two parallel tracks? If I’m right, science developed following Greek philosophy — maybe because philosophy needs it? I read a quote from Rabbi Adin, that discussing theological questions from a scientific point of view is like discussing physical facts from a shoemaker’s point of view. I would be glad for an answer; I don’t want to trouble you, and I’d be happy for references to your writings. And thank you for your work and your writings.
Answer
The question is too general. Obviously, in order to discuss the world, one needs familiarity with it. But not necessarily scientific familiarity, at least not beyond the popular level. There are indeed questions that are hard to discuss without scientific knowledge (such as causality, randomness, and so on). Sometimes it isn’t the knowledge itself that contributes, but rather the mode of thinking and the intellectual skill.
Discussion on Answer
I don’t know where to point you. The question is too general.
Could you point me to your writings? It’s important to me.
Thank you.